In honor of National Apprenticeship Day, EquipmentShare, one of the nation’s fastest-growing equipment rental and technology companies, announced the expansion of its U.S. Department of Labor-registered apprenticeship program to include commercial driver’s license (CDL) training in two high-growth regions: Central Florida and Central California.
The expansion reflects EquipmentShare’s mission to build the future of construction — not only through innovation and equipment solutions, but also by developing a pipeline of high-performing, safety-conscious professionals.
“If we want to transform the construction industry, we have to start by investing in the people who make it run—employees who are trained the right way, from day one,” says Jabbok Schlacks, co-founder and CEO of EquipmentShare. “That means developing the safest and most qualified drivers in the industry. Through partnerships with local workforce development organizations, EquipmentShare is creating meaningful careers for these critical roles. CDL drivers experience firsthand how their work at EquipmentShare impacts the construction industry—both today and in the future.”
Since announcing its first apprenticeship track in 2021, EquipmentShare has successfully trained more than 60 team members, providing an opportunity for employees to grow their careers from within. Many of those graduates have gone on to become members of the management and mentorship teams at EquipmentShare™ branches across the country.
In early 2025, EquipmentShare expanded its apprenticeship efforts to include external candidates—people who already hold a CDL license but have little to no commercial driving experience. In partnership with local workforce boards and job centers, the company identifies high-potential individuals seeking to launch a career in transportation and logistics.
The pilot program began in Texas, where Raven Davis, EquipmentShare’s first apprentice in this track, completed his training and now serves as a full-time driver. Based on that success, EquipmentShare is launching the program in two high-growth regions to support its expanding operations.
“The hands-on experience with my mentor gave me real-world insights that you just can’t get from a classroom,” Davis says. “Having clear steps and guidance really helped me feel confident on the road. Before, it was all about figuring things out on your own, but now I know the right way to do things. For anyone looking to get into the equipment industry, I’d definitely recommend it. I’m much safer on the road and ready to take on the job.” .
“This program is a triple win,” says Cody Brown, Director of Field Human Resources at EquipmentShare. “We train new drivers using the safest practices in the industry, give apprentices a path to meaningful careers with ongoing education and ensure our customers are supported by the best-trained drivers delivering their equipment. It’s a powerful way to build the future of our workforce and industry.”
Call for Apprenticeships
The expanded CDL program will support up to 50 apprentices in 2025 in Texas, Florida and California. Each participant will complete nine weeks of customized education, including classroom instruction, loading and unloading equipment, shadow driving and mentorship. Upon completion, apprentices will be assigned to an EquipmentShare branch and complete additional hands-on training with a veteran driver who has a spotless safety record.
“This program has been a game-changer,” says Travis Johnson, a seasoned EquipmentShare leader who has personally mentored several CDL apprentices. “You don’t just teach someone how to drive a truck — you teach them how to operate like a pro, be safe and be reliable. That’s the EquipmentShare way.”
With more than 7,000 employees and 300-plus locations nationwide, EquipmentShare continues to invest in the next generation of skilled workers who will power the construction industry for decades to come.
To learn more about EquipmentShare’s apprenticeship opportunities, visit equipmentshare.com/careers.
